amit.kadam87

Hello solaris First of all, it's great to see you reaching out for advice and taking steps towards your goal of becoming a doctor. Transitioning from IT to medicine is a big change, but it sounds like you’re passionate about this new path, which is essential for success in the medical field. It’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed with the decision-making process when it comes to choosing your future in medicine. Here are a few thoughts that may help clarify things for you: 1. Country Choice: Each country has its pros and cons regarding medical education, salaries, and work-life balance. If you’re considering the U.S., keep in mind that it has a rigorous admissions process, and the debt can be significant, but it also offers excellent training and opportunities. Canada and Australia have well-respected medical programs, and both countries generally offer a good quality of life and competitive salaries. Switzerland is known for high salaries, but the cost of living can be quite high, too. 2. IMG Considerations: As an International Medical Graduate (IMG), your path can be a bit different depending on where you choose to practice. In the U.S., IMGs often face challenges in matching for residencies, but it’s definitely achievable with a strong application. Countries like Canada and Australia may have different pathways for IMGs that could be more accessible. Researching each country's requirements and pathways will be crucial. 3. Specialty Selection: Don’t stress too much about choosing a specialty right now. Many med students don’t finalize their specialty until later in their training. Keep an open mind and explore different fields during your rotations. Focus on gaining a solid foundation and enjoy the journey of discovering what interests you most. 4. Building Your CV: You’re right to think about building a strong CV from the start. Get involved in volunteer work, research, or extracurricular activities related to healthcare. Networking with current medical students or professionals in your areas of interest can also provide valuable insights and opportunities. 5. Seek Guidance: Finding a mentor or advisor in the medical field can help you navigate these decisions. They can provide personalized guidance based on your interests and goals. Remember, it's completely normal to feel confused at this stage. Take things one step at a time, and don't hesitate to ask for advice as you go along. Surrounding yourself with supportive peers and mentors will make a significant difference. Good luck on your journey! You've got this!

UNC Charlotte offers various funding opportunities for PhD students, which may include teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and fellowships. These positions typically provide stipends and cover tuition fees. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources and grants to support their research. It's advisable to check with specific departments for tailored funding options and application details.

It's great that you have diverse interests in political science! Consider focusing on International Relations or Comparative Politics as your primary field, and you can pursue formal theory or research methods as a secondary field. This balanced approach will enhance your marketability and allow you to explore your varied interests. Incorporating data science or quantitative methods could strengthen your skill set, no matter the subfield you choose.

Hi John! It's great to see this thread for Fall 2025 PhD applicants. I'm also applying to various programs, focusing on Management/Organizational Behavior. Looking forward to sharing updates and experiences as we go through this process together. Best of luck with your applications!